Guatemala, Belize & Mexico; the best of the Mundo Maya

If you have the time then we have an amazing trip for you combining all these countries into an amazing cocktail. Start your trip in Antigua where you start the trip in Guatemala with the Pacaya volcano as a backdrop. The head for the magical market at Chichicastenango before heading fort he turquoise waters of Semuc Champey. After the jungles of Tikal you head for Caye Caulker so you can snorkel with amazing nurse sharks and turtles before heading to Mexico. There you will start at the amazing laguna Bacalar before heading to Merida which is a city steeped in history. End your trip on the island of Holbox where the feeling is laid back all year long.

Day 1 & 2

When you arrive in Guatemala City we will be at the ready and smoothly transfer you in less than an hour from the hustle and bustle of Guatemala City to Antigua. Antigua has an amazing backdrop with the active Pacaya volcano in the background. The city itself bathes in pastel colours and you should really take the time to stroll along it’s beautiful squares and very special clocktower that spans the road. Sip a cappuccino at one of the many loungy bars and restaurants that dot the main squares.

Day 3 & 4

Panajachel is a town like many others but it finds itself at the shores of Lake Atitlan which itself is guarded by 3 impressive volcanoes. No wonder that many visitors are in shock and awe of the place. Take a tour on the lake to let it all sink in! Should you cross the lake then be on the lookout for Maximon, a local deity which is fun to go and visit.

Optional excursion Chichicastenango; If at all possible we will try and have you visit Chichicastenango. The market itself is already well worth a visit but the real treat are the churches where priests walk around with giant baskets of myrrh and sage and the air is filled with magic. In the hill surrounding the city ancient Mayan traditions are kept alive by Mayan priests and you will feel privileged to witness these rituals. Please keep in mind that the market days are Thursday and Sunday and that on other weekdays none of the above is happening.

Day 5 & 6

If will be quite a long travelling day but eventually you will reach Coban which is located in the heartland of Guatemala. On day 6 you will visit the amazing turquoise pools and caves of the Semuc Champey and Lanquin area and you will be happy you made the long trip to get here! This excursion is included in your trip.

Day 7 & 8

You next stop is Tikal. We know a lot of people stay in the town of Flores but then you miss out on the best part; seeing and hearing the jungle wake up while sitting on one of the pyramids is something you will never ever forget. Howler monkeys will greet you while you ascend. It is up to you to visit the complex with or without a guide. With a guide you might see more wildlife but without leaves you alone with the jungle around you.

Day 9 & 10

Time to head into Belize. At Melchior de Menos you cross the border and it is not a very long drive to San Ignacio, the outdoor capitol of Belize. On the way you might even stop at Xunantunich, an ancient Mayan complex you arrive by taking a mini ferry. From the town there is so much to do. We strongly recommend the ATM cave experience where you swim and climb into an ancient cave complex and discover old Maya artefacts. Or go cave tubing and head with a tube an torch into a cave system and float around!

Day 11-13

We bring you to the water taxi terminal in Belize City from which you buy your ticket directly to head to Caye Caulker. This island is small and you can do everything on foot. Bob Marley stull rules here and the Belizean people are so proud of his music. There are a lot of bars and restaurants for choose from and winding down will come easy to you! On day 12 we take you on an amazing sailing tour where we will bring you to some amazing snorkelling spots where you can swim with harmless nurse sharks and sea turtles. The reefs are alive with thousands of very colourful fish and this is a trip you will never forget. The captain will take care of a nice rum punch on the way back!

Day 14 & 15

You take another water taxi and head to Mexico. Chetumal is where the water taxi drops you and we make sure you get on the bus for which have prebooked tickets. These buses are very comfortable and it is not a long ride today. The turquoise waters of the Laguna Bacalar are your next stop. Take a canoe across the lagune and look for colourful kingfishers while enjoying amazing views.

Day 16 & 17

You get on the bus to Merida. Be sure to visit Uxmal where the Temple of the Sorcerer will be a highlight of your trip as it is one of the most impressive pyramids around. Then you head for Merida where your taste buds will be tickled. Day 17 is a full day to discover this amazing city. Lots of churches and squares give it a distinct colonial feel and then there is really a multitude of amazing restaurants where you can spoil your inner self. If you really want to have a Mayan food experience we will be happy to organise a cooking class for you. If you love just the eating part then head on down to Kuuk for an amazing experience but we warn you, the tastes will surprise you!

Day 18 – 20

You take the bus to Chichen Itza where you have the opportunity to look around before we make sure that you head for the port at Chiquila in a private transfer from where you take the ferry to Isla Holbox. Take a few days to enjoy the island atmosphere which is still super laid back! From June to September be sure to include an excursion to the whale sharks that visit the area and try the north of the island if you feel like snorkelling!

Day 21

Take the ferry back to the main land and we will be there to take you to the airport after which you fly back home.

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